Cloud 10 Is Back: Getting the Servers in Shape

Cloud 10 Computers is back as the home for servers, networking, Linux and security. Here's the first project: a full security check-up on my own servers.

Cloud 10 Computers started in 1994 as my custom PC building business, and it's returning as the home for everything computer-related on this site. The first project was my own backyard. While the site sat untended, I did a full security check-up and cleaned up the servers. In general terms, here's what that meant.

Updates

The forum software, PHP and the operating system are all brought current. Old software is one of the easiest ways in for attackers, so this comes first.

Locking Down Remote Access

I moved to key-based logins, turned off password logins wherever I could, and set up automatic blocking for repeated failed attempts. Servers on the internet get probed constantly, and this is the single best reason not to skip it.

Keeping Databases Private

Databases now only talk to the server they live on, not the open internet.

Cleanup

Old accounts, leftover copies of the site and unused files are gone, and the site's files now sit in a cleaner folder layout. The web address didn't change.

A Private Tunnel

I built an encrypted tunnel so I can reach my servers from anywhere without exposing my home network to the internet. It lets me keep an eye on everything while I'm away from the desk.

What's Next

In the coming weeks I'll write these up step by step for anyone who wants to do the same on a home server or a small website, along with beginner-friendly guides for moving from Windows to Linux. If there's a topic you want first, tell me in the comments.

— Titanium